Relief is coming from this record-setting and dangerous heat in Ontario
Tuesday marks the final day of the extreme heat event for southern Ontario, with more typical conditions expected to follow
Southern Ontario has been experiencing several days of extreme heat and humidity, starting on Sunday. Temperatures have soared into the low to mid-30s, with humidex values reaching the mid-40s. On Monday, Toronto recorded its hottest temperature (36°C) since July 13, 2016, when we last saw that reading at the airport.
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Tuesday will see another round of high temperatures and elevated humidex values, with widespread heat warnings remaining in effect for much of the province. There's also the chance for severe thunderstorms to bubble up over parts of southern Ontario, with the risk for funnel clouds and even a landspout tornado.
Tuesday brings another day of high heat before some relief
Southern Ontario has been enduring a prolonged stretch of extreme heat and humidity that began on Sunday, with some relief expected by mid-week.
The peak of this heat wave occurred Monday, and while Tuesday marks the final day of extreme conditions, temperatures are still forecast to reach 30–35°C, with humidex values between 40–44.
Overnight temperatures will begin to fall to 20°C or below, offering some relief from the oppressive heat. By Wednesday, daytime temperatures are expected to return to more seasonal values. However, lingering humidity will still make it feel like the low to mid-30s. Southern Ontario experienced a similar heat event around this time last year, with humidex values climbing into the mid-40s.
FORECAST: Watching a funnel cloud risk with Tuesday's storms in southern Ontario
Temperatures return to normal by the weekend, but what about Canada Day?
Near-seasonal temperatures are expected by the weekend, accompanied by reduced humidity. However, there remains a chance of passing showers or thunderstorms during this time.
Heat and humidity are forecast to make a brief return on Monday, ahead of a strong cold front set to move through the region Monday night or early Tuesday (Canada Day). This front is expected to bring a period of rain and thunderstorms.
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As the front clears, early July is anticipated to bring near-seasonal or slightly below-seasonal temperatures, along with lower humidity in the days that follow.
Several new heat records broken
We’ve already seen temperatures and humidity increase to dangerously high levels as the ridge of high pressure intensified on Sunday.
At its highest, Toronto broke its record humidity for June, jumping to 46.3, 0.7 points higher than its former all-time peak on June 30th, 2018.
Toronto also recorded its hottest temperature in nine years, with the airport registering a 36-degree reading on Monday.
It was the same with Hamilton, which saw the humidex jump by 2.3 points higher than its peak from June of 2018, reaching 46.6. Downtown Hamilton was also the country's hotspot on Sunday, with air temperatures reaching 35.3°C.
Toronto and Hamilton weren’t the only ones heating up; Burlington had a high of 34°C with a humidex of 44. Sarnia was sitting at 33.9°C, feeling like 46, and Peterborough had the biggest gap, with temperatures reaching 31.7°C but feeling like 45.
Ottawa hit a new all-time June humidex value of 46.5 on Monday.
WATCH: Multi-day extreme heat event has residents seeking relief
Hot weather safety tips
Drink plenty of water. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can be dehydrating.
Avoid direct sunlight, especially during peak hours and when the UV rating is high.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
Use air conditioning when possible. If you do not have access to air conditioning, consider visiting a cooling centre, a shopping centre, or a public library.
Check on elderly relatives and other vulnerable neighbors.
Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.
If you experience symptoms of heat-related illnesses like dizziness, nausea, or confusion, seek medical attention.
Stay with The Weather Network for all the latest on conditions across Ontario.
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Thumbnail image courtesy: Getty Images